After numerous rumors, leaks, and speculations, ASUS has finally unveiled the newest iteration of its popular Zenfone lineup, the ASUS Zenfone 5.
Note: All photos in this article are of a pre-production Zenfone 5 unit.
An All New Design
Sporting an all new design, the Zenfone 5 now has a 6.2-inch FHD+ Full Screen display with a 19:9 aspect ratio and in a 5.5-inch body, resulting to an astonishing 90% screen-to-body ratio. According to ASUS, this display is also optimized for the upcoming Android P which can take advantage of the form factor. It can smartly turn itself on/off, adjust its color temperature, and stay bright as long as you’re looking at it.
The glass at the back is reminiscent of the Zenfone 3, which was a really beautiful device for its time, except that it looks more seamless with the sticker gone. The dual camera module is now placed in a vertical position.
A More Efficient and Smarter Device
Under the hood is the octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 processor that offers 40% improved performance when compared to the Snapdragon 630, boasts of a special feature called Neural Processing Engine. This helps the CPU in performing tasks that are related to AI learning by allocating them to the most suited portions of the chip. The end result – improved performance and efficiency.
The Zenfone 5 has up to 6GB of RAM, and up to 64GB of storage, which should be enough, even for those who are heavy multi-taskers. It also supports microSD cards of up to 2TB capacity.
Powerful Imaging
For imaging, the device is equipped with dual rear cameras composed of a 12MP RGB sensor complimented by an 8MP sensor with a 120° wide-angle lens. The main camera features Night HDR, OIS, EIS, PDAF, 4K Video Recording and RAW file support. For selfies, there’s an 8MP front camera with f/2.0 aperture.
The Zenfone 5’s main camera is able to recognize 16 different scenes, and is then able to adjust the every single element such as color and saturation to make each shot look better. It’s also able to learn from its user based on the choices that they make and apply the corresponding adjustments to the camera for succeeding captures.
Runs on a New Version of ZenUI
The device runs on the new ZenUI 5 which introduces Facial Recognition, along with a bunch of new features. To the delight of music lovers, the device is fitted with dual speakers along with a smart amp, Hi-Res audio and DTS Headphone: X support, and a new AudioWizard app with customizable profiles.
Smart, Even in Charging
Powering the Zenfone 5 is a 3,300mAh battery with ASUS BoostMaster fast charging, and a new Smart Charging feature that lets the phone learn from the user’s charging patterns, and can then vary the charging speed accordingly. For example, it will apply a slower charge after 11:00 PM, since it knows that you’re usually sleeping at that time. On the other hand, it will apply a faster charge during daytime, since it knows that you need to use it as soon as possible.
This device isn’t just a phone, but more of a device that learns and adapts to its user. The presence of AI Technology in almost every aspect – from the screen, to the camera, and even the battery, not only made smarter, but also more personal.
Pricing and Availability
The ASUS Zenfone 5 will retail for <insert price>, and will be available starting <insert availability date> at ASUS concept stores, kiosks, retail partners, and in Lazada. It’s also available via Home Credit’s 6-month installment plan at 0% interest.
ASUS Zenfone 5 Specs
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 octa-core processor with ASUS AI Boost
- 4GB/6GB of RAM, 32GB/64GB of storage expandable via microSD card (Up to 2TB)
- 6.2-inch FHD+ 19:9 IPS display with 2.5D Gorilla Glass, 90% Screen-to-Body Ratio, AI Display
- 12MP + 8MP rear cameras, Sony IMX363, f/1.8
- Night HDR, OIS, EIS, PDAF, 4K Video Recording, RAW File Support
- 8MP front camera, f/2.0, 120° wide-angle lens
- Fingerprint scanner, Face Recognition
- Dual Speakers with Smart Amp, Noise Cancellation, Hi-Res Audio and DTS Headphone: X support
- ZenUI 5.0 on top of Android Oreo
- 3,300mAh battery with ASUS BoostMaster Fast Charging and Smart Charging
Emman has been writing technical and feature articles since 2010. Prior to this, he became one of the instructors at Asia Pacific College in 2008, and eventually landed a job as Business Analyst and Technical Writer at Integrated Open Source Solutions for almost 3 years.
